Viva Italia! The top Italian restaurants in the Capital Region

The Capital Region has plenty of classic Italian restaurants to choose from. Here are some of the eateries that serve up the timeless Italian dishes that we all love.

12299010_643463759164244_890531814_n.jpg

Deanna Fox for newyorkupstate.com

More Perreca's

An extension of Perreca's Bakery, which has been coal-firing bread and other specialties for more than a century, More Perreca's serves up hearty fare in Schenectady's Little Italy neighborhood. While some come for the occasional accordion-accompanied dinners during the week, most come for favorites like Eggs in Purgatory, a spicy tomato sauce and egg dish served at breakfast with a generous side of Perreca's toasted Italian loaf.

Routinely voted as one of the best Italian restaurants in the Capital Region by locals, Canali's is a sure-bet for family gatherings and special nights out. Start with the cheesy garlic bread and the homemade cavatelli, but don't worry too much about leaving room for your entree and dessert. At Canali's, the meal isn't finished until you've enjoyed copious leftovers the next night.

Open since 1974, Ferrari's is hard to beat if you are looking for handmade pasta with rich, decadent Italian sauces. Italian home fries as an appetizer are a good start to the meal, just be sure to end with a homemade cannoli and cream puffs.

After an extensive renovation, this local favorite that is a hit with big groups is open again serving upgraded versions of Italian classics. Fans love Cornell's tomato-smothered braciole and lemony, garlicky grilled haddock, but the real insiders know that you can ask for Utica greens as an appetizer, even if it isn't on the menu.